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Madrid to Istanbul from €113: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Madrid, Spain
to
Istanbul, Turkey

How to Get from Madrid to Istanbul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$113 by busBest price
2752 kmDistance
7h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madrid to Istanbul with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  6m
Estimated price
€136-441
Recommended
Company
Amring FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
48h  8m
Estimated price
€113-155
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 2752 km
Duration: 7h 6m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Train
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
45h  11m
Estimated price
€0-0
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
7h  50m
Estimated price
€120-382
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
48h  4m
Estimated price
€195-285
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
53h  5m
Estimated price
€567-1360
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
33h  2m
Estimated price
€1361-1362

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Fly $190 $137 $120 $160 $157 $187 $133
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Traveling From Madrid to Istanbul

The journey from Madrid to Istanbul offers a fascinating contrast between Spain’s vibrant culture and Turkey’s rich history, presenting travelers with a tapestry of experiences that seamlessly blend modern life and ancient tradition.

Best Neighbourhoods in Istanbul

Istanbul's neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and experiences for visitors.

Beyoğlu
• Home to the iconic Istiklal Avenue.
• Features vibrant nightlife and arts scene.
Sultanahmet
• Site of major historical attractions like Hagia Sophia.
• Quaint atmosphere with traditional Turkish eateries.
Kadıköy
• Boasts a lively market and café culture.
• Popular with locals for its relaxed charm.

Best Times To Visit Istanbul's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia
Early mornings or late afternoons offer quieter moments to appreciate its beauty.
Topkapi Palace
Weekdays in the early spring provide a less crowded atmosphere and pleasant weather.
Grand Bazaar
Visit during the week for fewer tourists and a more local shopping experience.

Istanbul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Istanbul experiences a mix of Mediterranean and continental climates, with hot summers and cool, rainy winters; the best times to visit are in spring and fall when temperatures are pleasant, and crowds are thinner. Understanding the weather patterns will help you plan your activities effectively and make the most of your time in this vibrant city.

Dining Recommendation

Do not miss the chance to savor a traditional dish of İskender kebab at Bursa Kebapçısı, where the flavor of tender lamb smothered in rich tomato sauce and served over pita bread will be a delightful departure from Madrid's tapas scene. The lively atmosphere, combined with the use of locally sourced ingredients and spices, creates a dining experience that highlights the culinary depth of Istanbul.

Madrid - Istanbul operators

Explore transport companies operating between Madrid and Istanbul, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
turkishairlines.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
1367-1368

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Istanbul (IST)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
1364-4411
Website
flypgs.com

Plane from Madrid (MAD) to Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
1369-4410
Bus
Contact phone
+4-0269-238.788
Website
amring.autogari.ro

Bus from Madrid - Estacion Sur to Bucureşti - Militari

Average Duration
44h 30m
Estimated price
1551-1552

Bus from Bucureşti - Militari to İstanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
11h 10m
Estimated price
1553-1551
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Bucureşti - Militari to İstanbul Esenler bus station

Average Duration
11h 10m
Estimated price
1553-1551
Train
Contact phone
+34 91 232 03 20
Website
https://www.renfe.com/es/en

Train from Estación de tren de Atocha to Marseille St Charles

Average Duration
7h 58m
Estimated price
4412-4413
Contact phone
+35929311111
Website
https://www.bdz.bg/en

Train from Sofia to Halkali

Average Duration
11h 49m
Estimated price
4414-4415
all-pages.transport_car train
Contact phone
+49 89 54880111
Website
optimatours.de

all-pages.transport_car train from Villach Hbf/Bbf to Edirne

Average Duration
31h 31m
Estimated price
4418-4419

Madrid to Istanbul: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Madrid and Istanbul offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road trip from Madrid to Istanbul, spanning 2198 miles of diverse landscapes and cultures. The journey offers a mix of bustling cities, charming towns, and breathtaking scenery along the way. 💶 Cost-effective options abound for driving from Madrid to Istanbul, with prices ranging from €554 to €876 depending on your choice of vehicle and route. Travelers can budget accordingly while still enjoying the freedom and flexibility of a car journey.
Average price
€553 - €875
🛫 Flying from Madrid to Istanbul is a convenient option with direct flights taking approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes. Both Euroairlines and Turkish Airlines operate flights between Madrid Airport and Istanbul Airport. 🌍 The journey from Madrid to Istanbul offers a smooth travel experience, taking around 7 hours and 6 minutes by plane. You can enjoy in-flight amenities and comfortable cabins during this relatively short trip across countries. 💸 Prices for flights between Madrid and Istanbul can range from €140 to €455, offering budget-friendly options as well as more luxurious choices for travelers. With multiple airlines to choose from, you can select the best option based on your preferences and budget for a hassle-free journey to Istanbul.
Departure Point
Madrid Airport
Arrival Point
Istanbul Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider selecting a direct flight from Madrid to Istanbul with Turkish Airlines or Euroairlines; not only do they offer the fastest travel time of approximately 4 hours and 10 minutes, but Turkish Airlines often provides complimentary meals and a wide range of in-flight entertainment.
• Upon arrival at Istanbul Airport, be prepared for a large and modern terminal layout; follow the clear signage and use the airport’s free Wi-Fi to download the Istanbul Airport app, which can assist you with navigation and real-time information on transportation options.
• Taxi fares from Istanbul Airport to the city center generally range from €30 to €50, depending on traffic conditions and your exact destination; ensure you use authorized taxi ranks to avoid scams, and consider using ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi or Uber for a smoother experience.
🚌 Madrid to Istanbul by bus involves a journey with transfers, taking around 2 days and 8 hours. The services are operated by Amring and FlixBus, with prices ranging from €117 to €161. 🌍 Route options from Madrid to Istanbul vary in duration, with distances around 3,672 km to 4,132 km. Each route includes multiple transfers, such as stops in Barcelona, Paris, Bucharest, Varna, and more.
Departure Point
Madrid - Estacion Sur station
Arrival Point
İstanbul Esenler bus station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Madrid to Istanbul.

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The distance between Madrid and Istanbul is approximately 2752.0 km, or about 3531.4 km by car. Traveling by plane is the fastest option, taking around 7 hours and 10 minutes. Taking a combination of bus and train can take a longer time, while driving from Madrid to Istanbul would take approximately 32 hours and 59 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Madrid to Istanbul is by bus and train, with prices ranging from €110-€128. However, this option is also the most time-consuming, taking approximately 2 days and 13 hours. For those seeking a quicker journey, flying is the most time-efficient option, with a travel time of 7 hours and 10 minutes, but prices can range from €119-€502.
The prices for traveling by bus from Madrid to Istanbul range from €125 to €183.
To get from Madrid to Istanbul without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between Madrid and Istanbul is approximately 3530.9 km, and it takes about 32 hours and 59 minutes to drive. However, it is important to consider the cost of fuel and tolls, as well as the availability of rest stops along the way. The prices for this journey by car can range from €548 to €867, depending on various factors.
The best option to travel from Madrid to Istanbul without a car is by train and bus via Lviv. This journey takes approximately 46 hours and 26 minutes and can cost between €411 and €685.
No, there is no direct link between Madrid and Istanbul by bus. However, there are bus services available with transfers along the way. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 days and 12 hours. The bus services are operated by Yubim and MetroTurizm.
The flight between Madrid and Istanbul typically takes around 4 hours and 15 minutes on a direct flight. The cost of the flight can vary, ranging from €121 to €472 depending on the airline, timing, and availability.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Istanbul. With over 1596 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something to suit their budget and preferences. Prices start as low as €22 per night, offering a range of affordable options for different budgets.